The Class Assistant Certificate is suitable for anyone who assists a teacher in class (or would like to) and is aged 13 or above, adults included. They do not necessarily need to be assisting a PMA teacher.
Class Assistants can choose one of the following options:
1) Theory only: particularly suitable for those who don't presently assist in classes but would like to gain the skills, perhaps with a view to assisting the future. Applicants complete the test paper and once it has been assessed, if successful they receive a Class Assistant Theory certificate. Class Assistant Membership is then open to them.
2) Theory & Practice: this is suitable for those who are able to gain experience alongside a qualified teacher (PMA qualified or otherwise). Applicants complete the test paper and also gain at least 10 hours of practical experience. The qualified teacher will be required to sign to confirm the experience and competency shown. Following successful assessment, a Class Assistant Theory & Practice certificate is issued. Class Assistant Membership is then open to them.
The theory element involves a test paper which takes approximately 10 hours of research/study to complete. Areas covered within the certificate are:
- Health & Safety
- Legal issues relating to young people working (work permits, risk assessments etc)
- Child Protection
- General practice
It is much shorter than the Movement Diploma as it is not a full teaching qualification. It will however, cover the basics needed to assist in a dance or movement class.
The Certificate allows class assistants (and those who wish to become one) recognition for the study they have done and will, no doubt, reflect well on the school at which they assist.
Once the test paper is issued the completed paper must be returned within a maximum period of 1 year but can of course be completed much more quickly.
Class Assistants who hold the certificate may then choose become a Class Assistant Member of the PMA. Class Assistants Members do not have the right to enter students for exams although their name can be included on exam entry forms at the Teacher's Discretion. Class Assistant Members have the right to use the initials CA.PMA after their name, this right does not exist for Class Assistants who only complete the certificate and don't go on to join the PMA as a member.
The cost of the Class Assistant Certificate test paper is £25 and this includes assessment. After assessment you will receive a mark (Referral, Pass, Commended, Highly Commended, Honours). Anybody given a referral will be given feedback and required to re-sit the test. No additional charge is made for the first referral, if subsequent referrals are required there is an additional charge of £10 per referral.
Class Assistant Membership of the PMA is available as an optional extra once the test paper has been successfully completed, the annual cost of this membership is £20.
Please click here to download an application form.